Why violence among family members is rising — Security expert

Detective Auwal Bala Durumin Iya, a Senior Security Consultant and Quality Assurance Assistant on Homeland Security in Nigeria, shed light on this growing problem in Kano.

From the security angle, what factors are responsible for young people killing or harming family members, especially in Kano State?

From a security perspective, one major factor is uncontrolled population. Kano State receives people migrating daily from different parts of the country, many of them unemployed and without clear social integration. When you combine this with lack of basic security awareness within households, it creates vulnerabilities. Families often do not recognise early warning signs of violent behaviour or know how to engage security structures proactively.

How do local law enforcement practices, response times and intelligence gathering affect the prevention or escalation of such violent acts within households?

Security response is only as effective as the quality of information received. In many cases, incidents escalate because early intelligence is either not reported or not properly verified. When officers rely on unconfirmed information, it creates gaps. Proper intelligence gathering, verification and timely response are critical to preventing escalation, especially in domestic environments.

Are there identifiable patterns or hotspots in Kano where this kind of crime is prevalent?

Yes, there are patterns, but they are not limited to geography alone. Some cases are linked to broken homes, unresolved family disputes and long-term psychological trauma. While certain densely populated or economically challenged areas may record more incidents, the underlying causes often cut across communities. Unemployment also plays a major role. When young people lack opportunities, skills recognition or productive engagement, frustration builds up. I call this the failure to recognise prior learning and skills, where youths have abilities but no structured path to use them. This frustration can manifest violently within the home if not addressed early.

Does silence among families encourage this act?

Absolutely. Many families do not understand where and how to report incidents. Some fear stigma, while others are unsure of the appropriate agency or jurisdiction to go to. This delay allows issues to grow until they become uncontrollable. Early reporting is a key preventive security tool.

How can security agencies better engage Kano families to prevent these killings?

Security agencies should work closely with private security experts, community leaders and the media, both formal and informal. Public enlightenment on security awareness, noticing and reporting early warning signs and taking quick action are essential. Engagement must go beyond patrols and should move into homes and communities.

We need proactive security measures, stronger intelligence frameworks and strict accountability. Offenders must be punished without political or social interference. When people see that justice is consistent and impartial, it serves as both deterrence and reassurance to the public.

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